Toby W. Gilbert, age 68, of Des Plaines, Illinois passed away April 23, 2026 with his family by his side. He is survived by his wife, Jane (nee Schaefges); his sons Shawn (Aaliah) and Gavin (Jessica); grandchildren Ethan Robert and Noah Liam, Gwendolyn Moon and Emmett Ryly; his niece Siobhan (Brad; sons Adam and Connor) and his sister Mary Dolores. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Mary (nee Johnson), his sisters Rebecca Gilbert and Veronica Cisco, and his nephew Jason Gilbert.

He had many professional paths including owning his own landscaping business, driving trucks, and more recently real estate agent.  A long-standing member of the Optimist Club of Des Plaines and Friends of Youth Services, Toby will be remembered for his generous, charitable heart, his outspoken words when it mattered (and sometimes when it didn't) and for always finding a moment to crack a joke just to be silly.  He was a loving Husband, Father, Grandfather, Uncle, and friend; and although his presence will be missed, the love he gave will never fade.

'Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; Love leaves a memory no one can steal' (-Irish Blessing)

A memorial visitation will be held Saturday, May 9, 2026 from 12:00 pm until 3:00 pm at G.L. Hills Funeral Home, 745 Graceland Avenue, Des Plaines, Illinois. For information, please call the funeral home at 847-699-9003 or visit www.glhillsfuneralhome.com .

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to assist with medical and funeral expenses.  If you would like to contribute, please follow this link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-loving-memory-of-toby-gilbert .  Your support and kindness are truly appreciated.